Treatment Overview
Trans Epi LASIK in Korea (Transepithelial LASIK or No-Touch LASIK) is an advanced, flap-free laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea entirely using laser technology — without any mechanical instruments or blade incisions. It is a one-step, all-laser surface treatment ideal for correcting myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism safely and comfortably.
Unlike traditional LASIK, which requires creating a corneal flap, Trans Epi LASIK removes the thin epithelial layer and reshapes the cornea directly with an excimer laser, allowing faster recovery and reduced trauma. Korean ophthalmology centers specialize in AI-guided Trans Epi LASIK, incorporating topography-based laser mapping, biophotonic healing systems, and oxygen-enhanced corneal recovery protocols to ensure maximum precision and patient comfort.
The result is crystal-clear, stable vision with a minimally invasive, painless approach — perfect for patients with thin corneas or active lifestyles.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism with a 100% laser-based, flap-free method.
- Provide a safe solution for patients unsuitable for traditional LASIK or LASEK.
- Preserve corneal biomechanics and prevent flap-related complications.
- Offer rapid, painless recovery with excellent long-term visual outcomes.
Benefits
- No Flap, No Touch: Entirely laser-based — no cutting, no instruments.
- Ideal for Thin Corneas: Suitable for patients who can’t undergo flap-based LASIK.
- Minimal Dryness: Fewer corneal nerves affected, reducing post-op dryness.
- Shorter Healing Time: Fast epithelial regeneration with minimal discomfort.
- Enhanced Safety: No risk of flap displacement or mechanical errors.
- Crystal-Clear Results: Smooth optical surface and stable long-term clarity.
Ideal Candidates
Trans Epi LASIK in Korea is ideal for:
- Adults aged 18 or older with stable vision for at least one year.
- Patients with thin or irregular corneas unsuitable for standard LASIK.
- Individuals engaged in active or contact sports who need flap-free safety.
- Those prone to dry eyes or corneal sensitivity.
- People seeking minimally invasive, long-lasting vision correction.
Possible Risks & Complications
Trans Epi LASIK is extremely safe and precise, but mild and temporary side effects can occur, such as:
- Mild discomfort or light sensitivity for 2–3 days.
- Temporary haziness while the epithelium regenerates.
- Mild dryness or glare during early recovery.
- Rare under-correction, which can be easily refined.
Korean clinics minimize these effects using AI-calibrated excimer lasers, oxygen-assisted healing environments, and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) regenerative therapy, ensuring optimal comfort and visual recovery.
Techniques & Technology Used
Core Techniques
- All-Laser No-Touch Ablation: The excimer laser removes the epithelial layer and reshapes the cornea in one step.
- AI Wavefront Optimization: Customizes laser ablation for each patient’s optical profile.
- Topography-Guided Correction: Adjusts for corneal irregularities to enhance accuracy.
- Wavefront-Guided Refinement: Corrects higher-order aberrations for high-definition vision.
- Biophotonic Laser Regeneration: Stimulates cellular healing and reduces inflammation.
- Oxygen-Enhanced Cooling: Maintains corneal hydration and comfort during treatment.
These advanced methods provide ultra-precise, safe, and comfortable vision correction with rapid healing.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
- Comprehensive Eye Evaluation: Includes corneal mapping, wavefront analysis, and epithelial thickness assessment.
- AI-Driven Treatment Design: A personalized laser ablation map is created for each eye.
- Laser Epithelial Removal: The excimer laser gently removes the surface epithelium.
- Corneal Reshaping: The laser precisely reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors.
- Protective Lens Placement: A soft contact lens is placed to protect the eye as it heals.
- Post-Surgery Recovery: Antibiotic and moisturizing drops support rapid healing and comfort.
The entire procedure takes 10–15 minutes per eye, and most patients experience improved vision within 1–3 days.
Recovery & Aftercare
Aftercare Guidelines
- Use prescribed antibiotic and lubricating drops regularly.
- Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes for at least one week.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect from UV light.
- Avoid swimming, saunas, or dusty environments for 1–2 weeks.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and corneal clarity.
Recovery Timeline
- 1–3 Days: Mild sensitivity while the epithelium regenerates.
- 1 Week: Vision clears significantly with minimal discomfort.
- 2–4 Weeks: Full clarity and stable visual results achieved.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Clear, natural vision without glasses or contact lenses.
- Smooth corneal surface and strong biomechanical stability.
- Minimal dryness and long-term comfort.
- High visual precision, including improved night and contrast vision.
Longevity
Trans Epi LASIK offers permanent refractive correction for most patients.
Korean clinics report success rates of 97–99%, with stable 20/20 or better vision for 10–20 years.
Regular check-ups ensure sustained clarity and ocular health.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Leaders in All-Laser Vision Correction: Korea specializes in next-generation Trans Epi LASIK technology.
- AI-Guided Accuracy: Ensures perfect corneal reshaping without manual intervention.
- Minimally Invasive Comfort: No incisions, no flap, and rapid natural healing.
- Fast Visual Recovery: Clear vision within days with minimal discomfort.
- Affordable Excellence: 40–60% lower cost than comparable procedures abroad.
- Global Patient Support: Multilingual care and advanced post-operative monitoring for international patients.
Korea’s combination of AI-guided excimer precision, biophotonic recovery systems, and surface-preserving innovation makes it a world leader in Trans Epi LASIK eye surgery.
Unique Korean Methods & Technology
- AI-Calibrated Transepithelial Excimer Lasers
- Wavefront & Topography-Guided Fusion Systems
- 3D Corneal Imaging & Healing Analytics
- PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Corneal Regeneration Therapy
- Biophotonic Laser Healing Enhancement
- Oxygen-Assisted Corneal Cooling Systems
- AI Healing Progress Monitoring
These technologies ensure ultra-precise correction, smooth recovery, and biologically stable vision results.
Cost Range
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Trans Epi LASIK | ₩1,800,000 – ₩2,800,000 | $1,330 – $2,070 | All-laser surface correction + protective lens + aftercare |
| Custom Wavefront Trans Epi LASIK | ₩3,000,000 – ₩4,200,000 | $2,220 – $3,110 | AI-guided ablation + wavefront optimization + follow-ups |
| Premium Regenerative Trans Epi Vision Program | ₩4,500,000 – ₩6,000,000 | $3,330 – $4,440 | PRF healing + biophotonic therapy + lifetime vision monitoring |
Popular Clinics
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul): Experts in Trans Epi LASIK and all-laser, no-touch correction techniques.
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Gangnam): Leaders in AI-guided surface ablation and wavefront customization.
- Dream Eye Center (Myeongdong): Specialists in flap-free laser surgery with rapid healing results.
- Olim Eye Clinic (Gangnam): Pioneers in regenerative, non-invasive laser correction systems.
- Eyereum Eye Clinic (Apgujeong): Renowned for advanced surface laser vision correction and biologic healing integration.
